Attorney-General Abubakar Malami Sets Sights on Kebbi Governorship
On April 5, 2022, Abubakar Malami put months of speculation to rest by publicly declaring that he would seek the Kebbi governorship in 2023. This is not just any announcement; it comes from one of the top legal minds in the country, known to most Nigerians as the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
Malami, a two-term cabinet member since 2015, is making a clear departure from a strictly legal background to enter the often turbulent world of politics in his home state. His bid comes as current Kebbi State Governor Atiku Bagudu’s tenure winds down, throwing the race wide open. Malami chose to run on the APC ticket—no surprise there, considering his deep roots in the ruling party even before joining Buhari’s government.
A Shift From Federal Legal Duties To State Politics
For a politician, timing is everything. Malami’s ambition to lead Kebbi State isn’t just about personal advancement—it represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. By stepping out of the legal shadows and into state-level politics, Malami is echoing a trend seen with other powerful federal figures looking to wield more direct influence. His career as AGF has been marked by high-profile cases and national controversy, but state governance requires a different playbook: local alliances, grassroots mobilization, and policies tailored to everyday people in Kebbi.
People across Nigeria—especially in Kebbi—have already started to weigh his chances. While some see Malami’s extensive legal experience and network as an advantage, others question how smoothly he can navigate local concerns and political dynamics. Being the face of federal law isn’t the same as facing the issues of farmers in Yauri or the youths in Birnin Kebbi. Can Malami transform years of handling sensitive federal matters into practical leadership at the state level? That’s the question on many lips.
His background provides both leverage and challenges. Malami’s national stature means resources, connections, and media attention. On the flip side, any controversial decisions he made as AGF could become ammunition for rivals. Kebbi’s political scene isn’t short on strong personalities seeking to emerge as the next governor, so the road won’t be smooth.
The tension in Kebbi will likely intensify as campaign season gets closer. Everyone will be watching: Will Malami leverage his reputation as the President’s legal enforcer to win local hearts, or will the transition from federal authority to state leadership prove tougher than expected? Kebbi’s future political direction could depend on how this plays out.
RUBEN INGA NUÑEZ
April 21, 2025 AT 16:14Abubakar Malami’s jump from the Attorney‑General’s office to a state governorship race is a textbook case of a high‑profile technocrat seeking electoral legitimacy.
His legal résumé, peppered with constitutional litigation and high‑stakes anti‑corruption cases, gives him a deep understanding of Nigeria’s regulatory frameworks.
However, mastering the intricacies of federal law does not automatically translate into effective local governance.
Kebbi’s agricultural sector, for instance, requires hands‑on policies that address irrigation, market access, and youth employment.
Malami will need to assemble a team that balances his legal acumen with seasoned agronomists and community organizers.
The APC’s endorsement provides a robust party machinery, yet internal factionalism can derail even the most well‑resourced campaigns.
Past governors who relied solely on federal connections often stumbled when confronted with grassroots expectations.
If Malami can leverage his network to secure development projects while listening to local stakeholders, he may close that gap.
Conversely, any lingering controversy from his tenure-such as the high‑profile prosecutions-will be weaponized by opponents.
Voters in Yauri and Birnin Kebbi will scrutinize his track record for consistency and fairness.
Strategically, he should emphasize transparent budgeting and measurable outcomes to gain public trust.
A clear communication plan, using both traditional media and social platforms, will be essential to counter misinformation.
In addition, a commitment to empower local councils can demonstrate that he values decentralization.
From a policy perspective, focusing on irrigation infrastructure and vocational training aligns with Kebbi’s immediate needs.
Finally, his personal brand as a ‘legal enforcer’ must be softened to appear approachable and collaborative.
If he accomplishes these steps, Malami could transform his federal prominence into a genuinely impactful governorship.
Michelle Warren
April 24, 2025 AT 02:38This is jus another politicl circus, nothing new.
Christopher Boles
April 26, 2025 AT 13:02Malami's legal background could actually be a blessing for Kebbi if he applies that analytical mindset to local issues.
He could streamline land disputes, which are a big headache for farmers.
With the right advisors, his experience can translate into efficient public services.
There's a lot of hope that fresh perspectives can invigorate the state's development.
Let's give him a chance to prove he can bridge the gap between federal law and grassroots needs.
Crystal Novotny
April 28, 2025 AT 23:26maybe the circus reflects the nation’s chaos.
Reagan Traphagen
May 1, 2025 AT 09:50Everyone knows Malami used his position to hide the real agenda of the elites.
If he becomes governor, expect a continuation of covert operations that benefit foreign interests.
The legal battles he championed were just smoke screens for power grabs.
Kebbi deserves better than a puppet of the grand conspiracies that run Abuja.
Stay vigilant, because the same people who silenced critics will now silence the common folk.
mark sweeney
May 3, 2025 AT 20:14i dont think its all that deep man its just a normal politc al game kinda like any othr candidate just trying to win a seat alot of hypes and drama dont take it too srsly
randy mcgrath
May 6, 2025 AT 06:38Politics often mirrors philosophy; power is a tool, not an end.
If Malami can wield his legal insight with humility, Kebbi might see a new chapter of thoughtful governance.
Every leader writes a story, and the community decides whether it becomes a tragedy or a tale of progress.
Hope that his narrative leans toward the latter.